Villa Fiorentina, Mediterranean villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France.
Villa Fiorentina is a Mediterranean residence at the tip of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, set directly on the waterfront. Two belvedere turrets mark its roofline, and a monumental staircase connects the main building straight down to the shore.
The villa was founded in 1917 by Countess Thérèse de Beauchamp and was later altered by different owners over the following decades. During World War II, it was used by occupying forces and suffered considerable damage that required restoration once the war ended.
Villa Fiorentina was a gathering place for artists, writers, and notable figures during the first half of the 20th century. Walking past its walls today, you can still sense how much the property was shaped around social life and public display.
The grounds sit on a peninsula with uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is a good idea. Coming in the early morning or late afternoon gives better light and generally fewer people around.
The property has two swimming pools that were deliberately hidden during the war years to protect them from occupying forces. They were concealed so thoroughly that they came through that period almost undamaged.
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